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An incomplete abortion occurs when some of the pregnancy tissue remains in a woman’s uterus after she has had an abortion. 

Signs of an incomplete abortion include:

• Cramping 
• Heavy bleeding
• Fever or chills
• Abdominal or lower back pain
• Passing large clots through vaginal bleeding
• Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

When Should I Receive Help?

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of an incomplete abortion, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately. If you have not yet chosen abortion and are still weighing your options, speaking to a trusted professional will help to provide some clarity.

If left untreated, an incomplete abortion can lead to:

• Infection
• Sepsis
• Hemorrhage
• Infertility

Treatment of an Incomplete Abortion

According to the National Library of Medicine, a medical provider can treat an incomplete abortion by using medication that dilates the cervix, which allows the leftover pregnancy tissue to pass. The medication also causes the uterus to contract, which aids in the process of expelling the tissue from the body. 

If this treatment is unsuccessful or the severity of the incomplete abortion is too great, surgery can be utilized as an alternative treatment. During this surgery, which is called a dilation and curettage procedure (D & C), the provider uses surgical instruments to dilate the cervix. Then, they use a surgical instrument called a curette to remove the remaining tissue from the uterus. 

Pain medication and antibiotics may also be prescribed to assist the woman in her recovery. 

Who Is at Risk?

Women receiving abortions are at risk for incomplete abortion, but there are other factors that can increase the likelihood of having one. 

These factors can include:

• Having a late-term abortion
• History of having c-sections
• Bleeding disorders
• Infections

Who Can I Turn to for Help?

Remember, if you are experiencing signs of an incomplete abortion, it is imperative that you seek medical treatment immediately. Your health is important! 
If you would like additional information or are facing an unplanned pregnancy and would like to talk about your options, A Woman’s Concern is here for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!